MRI scans at Henry Ford
All of our imaging technologists are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, and our facilities have achieved accreditation by the American College of Radiology. We also offer convenient MRI hours at our different locations to fit your schedule.
We’ll answer all your questions before, during, and after the exam. In the meantime, we have answers below to some of the most commonly asked questions about MRI exams.
What’s an open MRI, and do I need one?
Some patients may want to avoid traditional enclosed MRI scans for a number of reasons, such as:
- Claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces)
- Inability to fit within the enclosed scanner
- Physical disabilities that the enclosed scanner may not accommodate
We offer open MRI systems to make the experience more comfortable. If you need an MRI, talk to your doctor about scheduling your test in one of our open MRI systems
What can I expect during my MRI scan?
Your test will take 45 minutes to an hour. You’ll lie on a padded table that will move into the center of the MRI scanner. You may feel warmth in the scanned area during the exam.
Your MRI technologist will offer you earplugs to reduce the noise during the exam. An MRI scan can be loud, and you’ll hear hammering or buzzing noises while the scanner takes its pictures. You may feel vibration during these noises, along with slight movement of the table. It’s important to lie still during the test so the pictures the MRI scanner takes aren’t blurry.
You’ll be able to talk to your MRI technologist during the exam with a two-way intercom system. The technologist will keep you updated and check on you between scans.
Are MRIs safe?
Some patients with certain medical conditions or implanted devices (such as most pacemakers) can’t have an MRI. Talk to your doctor or MRI technologist if you’re not sure whether you should have an MRI.
How do I prepare for my MRI scan?
We do not allow jewelry (except for wedding rings), watches, or other personal belongings in the MRI scan room because of the powerful magnets in the MRI scanner. Make sure to leave these items at home. If you forget, you can place them in a locker we provide before your test. If you’ve been admitted to the hospital and need an MRI scan, you should leave jewelry and watches locked in your room.